The production of Disney+’s original series Knock Off, featuring Kim Soo Hyun in the lead role, has been brought to a halt due to the ongoing controversy surrounding the actor. On April 23rd, industry insiders confirmed that filming would be suspended indefinitely. The decision was made public shortly after Disney+ had already delayed the show’s release, explaining that the situation required “careful deliberation.”
The suspension comes in the wake of serious allegations involving Kim Soo Hyun and the late actress Kim Sae Ron. Rumors claim that Kim dated Kim Sae Ron while she was underage and that he used his family’s entertainment agency to pressure her into repaying debts related to her DUI incident. Kim has vehemently denied these accusations, even holding an emotional press conference to defend himself, but the public backlash has not let up.
Production for Knock Off was nearing completion, with the 18-episode script reportedly finished. Initially, there were efforts to push forward with filming despite the controversy. Behind-the-scenes discussions continued, reflecting hope that the project could be salvaged. However, the team ultimately informed the cast and crew that filming would no longer resume for the foreseeable future.
As a result of the pause, several actors and staff who had been waiting for the remaining shoots have since committed to other projects. This indicates a shift in momentum and uncertainty around whether the original team will remain intact should production eventually resume.
Despite the serious disruption, sources suggest that Knock Off is not entirely canceled. The show’s fate depends largely on the outcome of Kim Soo Hyun’s legal battle. The actor is currently suing individuals affiliated with the Garo Sero Institute YouTube channel for defamation, seeking damages of 12 billion KRW (approximately $8.4 million USD).
As this legal conflict unfolds, the future of Knock Off remains undecided. The show, once one of the most anticipated K-drama releases, now stands at a crossroads, with its release dependent on whether Kim Soo Hyun can clear his name and restore public trust.
